Asbestos Ceiling Tiles

Asbestos was extensively used a couple of decades ago for making tiles due to its diverse and useful properties. It is resistant to heat, fire as well as chemicals; and also very durable. Despite all the advantages, it is no longer used today, as it was found to contain cancer causing elements. It is even banned in some places to prevent health risks. Now, if your home was built before 1980 or 1970, there are chances of asbestos-containing tiles being installed there.

Dangers of Asbestos in Ceiling Tiles

Although it is known that exposure to asbestos is harmful, having tiles containing it does not mean you have a continual risk of exposure to the harmful material. Asbestos fibers are embedded in the ceiling tiles and hence, there is no continual risk. You should also know that asbestos in ceiling tile is not as harmful as other products. The danger lies only if the tiles are broken, are in damaged condition and dust is produced.

Although these fibers are firmly embedded in tiles, after a few years they become brittle. When the tiles are removed during renovation, asbestos particles pollute the surrounding air. Inhaling this air can cause several health disorders like asbestosis, respiratory disorders. One of the major side effects is mesothelioma, i.e, a type of cancer. Sometimes, tiny particles of asbestos can also mix with air while drilling a hole in the ceiling for lighting fixture.

Identifying Asbestos Ceiling Tiles

Initially, you need to find out whether your home has asbestos tiles. Now, it is not always easy to identify the constituents of any building material simply by looking at it. But, there are certain ways that can help.

➡ As mentioned above, if the house was built 30-50 years ago, it has greater chances of containing asbestos tiles.

➡ Sometimes, asbestos tiles are cracked and you can see powdery substance flowing out from it.

➡ Secondly, manufacturers often mark tiles with asbestos and hence, it is easy to identify.

➡ Thirdly, most of the other types of tiles like the fiberglass are identified easily. If you cannot identify the ceiling tiles, you can test them for asbestos, until proven otherwise.

➡ Samples of tiles can be tested in laboratories to confirm whether they contain asbestos or not.

Removing Asbestos Tiles

If your ceiling tiles are chipped and damaged, you need to replace them immediately. It is recommended to look for professional help for removing asbestos tiles as the dust created on removing can be harmful. Trained professionals use safety instruments to remove these tiles. In certain areas, according to the law, it is obligatory for people to hire professionals while dealing with asbestos tiles.

Secondly, if the tile is not damaged, you can simply follow other precautionary measures. One of the simplest ways to prevent health risks is to cover these tiles with non-asbestos containing tiles. You can put a layer of drywall over asbestos ceiling tiles to prevent pollution of air. It is recommended not to drill, saw or vacuum asbestos tiles.

If you find out that your home contains asbestos tiles, it is better to remove them as soon as possible. Although, there may not be an immediate danger, they can possess health risks sooner or later. Therefore, it is better to do away with these ceiling tiles. Good luck!